Jillian Laura Flanagan

Jillian Laura Flanagan, who was loved by so many family, friends and colleagues, passed away on February 1st, 2026 at the age of 25 in Philadelphia, PA. Everyone who knew Jillian loved Jillian, and her passing has left a hole in many hearts. 

Jillian was born in Bellevue, Washington on July 6, 2000, to Paulette and James Flanagan. She graduated from Great Valley High School in 2018 before attending the University of Wisconsin, where she graduated with distinction. 

While Jillian spread so much joy to so many people, she battled mental health challenges for many years. Even though she was facing her own difficulties, Jillian worked hard to help others. In high school, Jillian created GV’s first-ever mental health day where students could learn about issues and solutions. She then made this the focus of her life when she enrolled in Penn’s School and Mental Health Counseling program. While working full-time, Jillian excelled in her graduate classes, where she again achieved a 4.0. While in this program, Jillian offered personal guidance to children with eating disorders at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Jillian loved fiercely, spoke her beliefs passionately, and smiled brightly. She found joy in creating art for the people she cared about, crafting with clay, making candles and sewing cat toys. Jillian was proud of her Spanish-speaking skills and she was deeply sympathetic to social causes. She was goofy, warmhearted, enjoyed a good pun and threw many unique parties. 

She is remembered and loved by her mother and father; her brothers, Peter (Jackie Wittich) and Michael (Cian Halloran); as well as her grandparents, Dr. Pedro and Prespedina Lucina; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and her cat Yo-Yo.

A service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 8th, 2026 at Paoli Presbyterian (225 S Valley Rd, Paoli, PA 19301). The service will be available on https://vimeo.com/event/5711059

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a mental health program such as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia or Barnstone Art for Kids.

Those who are battling mental health issues should never give up, as there are so many people who love you.